A mother’s love, a safe school, and Dettol’s helping hand

In the small village of Ramna Sarkarpara in Kurigram, a mother named Rikta Akter Banu started something truly remarkable. She is not just a mother—she’s also a nurse. But above all, she is a fighter.

When Rikta’s young daughter, who lives with autism and cerebral palsy, was denied admission to a local school, Rikta was devastated. But instead of giving up, she took a bold step.

In 2009, she founded the Rikta Akter Banu–Lutfa Buddhi Protibondhi Biddaloy by selling her husband’s only land - not just for her daughter, but for all the children in her community who were being excluded because of their disabilities.

Today, her school is a safe and joyful space for nearly 300 children with special needs. It is a place where they are loved, cared for, and given the chance to learn -just like everyone else.

Rikta did not have much, but she gave everything she had, a mother’s love, a nurse’s compassion and a heart full of hope.

Her powerful journey has touched hearts around the world. In 2024, the BBC recognised her as one of the 100 Most Inspiring and Influential Women in the World, under the Science, Health & Technology category.

This Mother’s Day, Dettol—the trusted hygiene and disinfectant brand that has long been a household name in Bangladesh—extended a heartfelt gesture to Rikta and her school.

Just like a mother protects her child with love and care, Dettol stepped in to help safeguard the school’s children by providing a full year’s supply of hygiene and disinfectant products.

In addition, Dettol contributed BDT 50,000 in cash to support the school’s ongoing efforts to create a safe and nurturing environment for children with special needs.

Md Amin Ul Bashir Alvi, brand manager at Reckitt Benckiser Bangladesh, said “Rikta’s journey reminds us that real change often begins with a mother’s determination. We are honored to be part of her mission and to help ensure that these children can continue to learn and grow in a clean, safe, and loving environment.” Salahuddin Ahmed, senior marketing Manager at Reckitt Benckiser Bangladesh, added “At Dettol, we have always stood for protection—and who understands protection better than a mother? This Mother’s Day, we are proud to stand beside Rikta, a mother whose love created a sanctuary for so many. Supporting her is our way of celebrating the strength and care that every mother brings into the world.”

This partnership is about more than just hygiene supplies. It’s about protecting dreams. It’s about honoring a mother who never gave up—and standing with a brand that believes every child, no matter their ability, deserves a clean, safe place to belong. 

For 75 years, in Bangladesh, Dettol is protecting our loved ones against illness causing germs and help us reach our potential in life.